Savary, Merrill David – age 77, of Lawrencetown/Digby, Nova Scotia, passed away on January 10th, 2026, in Dartmouth General Hospital as the result of a heart attack.
Born in 1949, in Digby, Merrill was the youngest son of Russell Savary and Ola Savary (Tufts). He carried a lifelong love for his hometown and his family heritage, returning
to Digby whenever he could and speaking fondly of where he came from.
Married in 1979, Merrill was a devoted husband to Barbara, and they did nearly everything together. He chose early retirement to spend more time with family, a time they enjoyed through several trips to Punta Cana. Throughout their marriage, Merrill lovingly maintained their home and vehicles. In retirement, he gladly accompanied Barbara to her activities, helping set up and taking the time to get to know her friends. Family was a constant source of pride for Merrill, and few things brought him more joy than watching and coaching his son, Michael play baseball. That love fit naturally with his lifelong enjoyment of sports, including golf, hockey, curling, and baseball. In his later years, his granddaughters were the light of his life. A natural conversationalist, Merrill genuinely enjoyed learning about others—even during his time in hospital, he wanted to know the names and stories of every nurse who cared for him. His kindness, curiosity, and love of sharing knowledge shaped both his work and personal life.
Merrill dedicated nearly 40 years as a heavy-duty mechanic at CFB Halifax, and took great pride in his work. Later in his career, he learned French not only to advance professionally, but also to support his son with his schoolwork, reflecting his quiet devotion as a father. After his retirement, he continued to share his mechanical knowledge by helping friends, family, and anyone who asked. Outside of work, he found joy in nature, with a special love for animals, plants, and especially flowers.
His faith was a steady presence throughout his life, from childhood memories of hymns his mother played on the organ to his involvement with Calvin United Church in Lawrencetown. A lover of facts with a remarkable memory, Merrill was a devoted family historian and storyteller. He will be remembered as a man who cared deeply, learned continually, shared his wealth of knowledge and stories, and lived with kindness and generosity at the heart of all he did.
Merrill is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara (Bell) Savary; son, Michael (Emily) Savary; granddaughters, Olivia and Charlotte; siblings, Lauren Savary, Nathan Savary, and Marlene Miller; nieces and nephews, Lynn, Scott, Marlene, and Brad; sister-in-law Bettianne (Barry) Colpitts; and nephew, Craig.
He was predeceased by his parents, and 9 half-siblings.
A funeral will be held on Friday, January 16, 2026 at 2 p.m. in Calvin United Church, 3795 Lawrencetown Rd, Lawrencetown, NS, with visitation on January 15, 2026 from 7:00-8:30 pm in the same location. Cremation has taken place, and a private family interment will occur at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Calvin United Church, Heart and Stroke Foundation, or Dartmouth General Hospital Foundation.
Merrill will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
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